This check list is not for
everyone. This checklist is intended to cover the majority
of problem encountered while attempting to install a Service
Pack. This checklist is designed for Windows Vista,
however most steps can apply to any operating system.

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Automatic Update is Microsoft's preferred method
to get Windows Vista Service Pack 1
Windows Vista computers set to Automatically Update (AU) will
automatically start receiving Service Pack 1.
To set for Automatic Update:
Open Windows Update
On the left side click "Change settings"

Select your preferred option.
Click OK and follow prompts.Many people, myself included, feel Automatic Update is not
the best.
You are better able to avoid internet issues and other possible
issues if you have SP-1 on CD or at least in a file on the hard
drive.
If you pay for bandwidth or you are limited on internet time,
you may be better off using one of the options listed in Step 1
below. Regardless which method you choose, look at the
checklist and make sure your computer is ready.
Spyware, viruses, other malware, and other issues, whether known
or unknown, are some of the major causes of issues relating
Service Pack Installation.*******************************

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*****PRINT THIS
CHECKLIST*****

Install Windows Vista Service Pack 1 this way:1. Do
not use Express Installation.Order Service Pack 1 on
DVD or download the
Standalone
Installation. (be sure to select the correct language).
Then burn it to a CD or DVD (about 435 MB) and keep for the future.
This media
may be use on any and all your computers using Windows Vista in
the downloaded language. Regardless if you have one
computer or many, download and burn to CD/DVD. that way
you will already have the Service Pack if it is necessary for
you to rebuild this or another computer. this download
will work on all Windows Vista computers. Microsoft would
prefer owners of a single computerrecieve SP-1 through Windows
Update, but having SP-1 on CD/DVD gives you more flexability.

2. It is best to
resolve any current issues BEFORE installing Service Packs.

3. Data
should be safe, back-up important data just in case if you do
not already have a back-up plan.

4. Check to
make sure you have all updated drivers. Also be sure any
mission critical software is supported by SP2

5. You should
have at least 2gb free space for automatic Update from Windows
Update. For the stand alone installation, have a minimum
of 8 GB free space. If you are close to the free space
requirements, you need to start looking for ways to free space
or add another hard drive.

6.
Check with computer manufacturer to insure compatibility with
Windows Vista SP-1, in the past there have been a few models
with where the company has said wait while the manufacturer
implemented a fix before installing a Service Pack. This
is especially important if you have something other than a
Desktop such as a laptop, Tablet PC etc.